As an undergrad I was positive I was going to work with animals. It is true, I was on track to becoming a veterinarian and I couldn't imagine my life not including fuzzy critters. It is funny how life sneaks up on us when we least expect it. I had spent quite a lot of time in vet clinics, working on the medical side, I realized just as I was about to start vet school that while I loved animals, I wasn't crazy about medicine. Oops. Around that same time I fell deeply in love with photography. You know how the rest of that story goes.

Fast forward 3 years and here I am as a full time professional photographer, but I still have a longing to work with animals. Luckily, I am able to leverage my skills as a photographer to give back to charities that care for those furry critters. If you have seen me post about the Oakland Animal Shelter, you know what I am referring to. Recently I have also had the pleasure of working with another critter. Have you ever heard of Koko? Yup, Koko the gorilla. I had no idea that the Gorilla Foundation was located right in Woodside. I am now volunteering with this organization to do what I can to help Koko. What a thrill!

The above painting is something that Koko herself created. It is titled Love. Koko-Love is a sign that Koko often uses when communicating with her caregivers. Watching videos of Koko communicating with humans absolutely amazes me. If you are interested in learning more about Koko or finding out how you can help the Gorilla Foundation be sure to visit their website.

Two Years Ago: Bird Watch'n
Six Years Ago: Lovely London